The selective reduction of amides plays an important role in industry to produce their respective amines. Current major methodologies in use for this transformation are the usage of lithium aluminum hydride and hydrogenation catalyzed by complexes based on noble metals. While effective, these practices have limitations that could be improved or eradicated with the use of a mild alternative. Our research demonstrates that ammonia-borane could potentially serve as an alternative reagent for the reduction of amides to their respective amines. This synthetic route is catalyst-free and relatively easier to handle compared to lithium aluminum hydride or hydrogenation equipment. For the reduction of tertiary amides, up to 100% conversion with GC analysis was achieved under mild conditions.

Ammonia-borane as a hydrogen source for the reduction of amides to amines under mild conditions

255th National Meeting (2018)

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